Senator Thomas M. Bakk's Press ReleasesSenator Thomas M. Bakk's Press Releaseshttp://www.senate.mn/members/member_bio.php?mem_id=1003&ls=
Fri, 09 Dec 2016 09:26:49 +0100en-us0-8Sen. Bakk Statement on Legal Challenge to New Legislative Buildinghttp://www.senate.mn/members/member_pr_display.php?ls=&id=4855
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Following an announcement of plans for a legal challenge to legislation authorizing the construction of a new public building adjacent to the State Capitol, Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk released the following statement:
“This lawsuit does not contain any legitimate concerns. The legislation authorizing construction of the new legislative building adjacent to the Capitol was included in the public finance section of the tax bill. Public finance provisions have been an established component of tax bills for decades. This legislation is consistent with authorizing legislation for similar construction projects that have been completed under the supervision of the Minnesota Department of Administration. Moreover, it was vetted by legislative counsel and public finance experts at Minnesota Management and Budget and passed by both bodies of the legislature before being signed into law by the Governor.
I fear the only result of this suit will be the waste of taxpayer resources on legal expenses and the potential costs associated with delaying the construction project.
Nevertheless, I remain encouraged by the bi-partisan effort taking place to design and deliver a modern legislative building that will enhance Minnesota’s tradition of public participation in government.”
-30-Thu, 31 October 2013 00:00:00 GMTSen. Bakk statement on Mayo Clinic Announcementhttp://www.senate.mn/members/member_pr_display.php?ls=&id=4629
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Governor Mark Dayton joined Mayo Clinic president and CEO Dr. John Noseworthy and other Rochester-area leaders at the State Capitol this afternoon to announce plans to for a "destination medical center” initiative. Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk released the following statement:
“Mayo is recognized around the globe as a leader in healthcare and we’re proud that they call Minnesota home. They are already our state’s largest private employer and today the Mayo Clinic announced plans to invest billions of private dollars to stay competitive, grow jobs and spur economic development right here in Minnesota. The state needs to be a partner in ensuring that Mayo and the Rochester region achieves that shared goal.
This is clearly is a big project that will require bi-partisan participation in the legislature and significant involvement from city and county partners from the start. Working together with Mayo, I’m optimistic that this group will be able to arrive at a solution to position the Mayo Clinic among the top destination medical centers in the world for decades to come.”
-30-Wed, 30 January 2013 00:00:00 GMTSen. Bakk statement on State of the State Addresshttp://www.senate.mn/members/member_pr_display.php?ls=&id=5106
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Governor Mark Dayton delivered the State of the State address this evening before a joint convention of the Minnesota Legislature. Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk released the following statement:
“Tonight, the Governor underscored the progress Minnesota has seen over the past two legislative sessions, which have been among the most productive in recent history.
Our state is in its strongest fiscal position in more a decade, we have exceeded our pre-recession jobs numbers and we are witnessing new economic development in nearly every region of Minnesota. Yet, as the Governor emphasized, there is still more we can accomplish this year to help Minnesota workers, farmers and businesses thrive.
In the days ahead, we will work together with our colleagues on both sides of the aisle to finalize a package of tax cuts and key investments for Minnesota families, along with a robust bonding bill to put thousands of men and women to work on improving our state’s deteriorating infrastructure.
As Governor Dayton said, we all want Minnesota to be its best and our most important job is to ensure a better, more prosperous future for our children and grandchildren.”Wed, 30 April 2014 00:00:00 GMTSen. Bakk statement on February Economic Forecasthttp://www.senate.mn/members/member_pr_display.php?ls=&id=4692
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota Management & Budget released the state’s February Economic Forecast earlier today. Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk released the following statement:
“I am very pleased to see that Minnesota continues to make steady, incremental progress in resolving our financial challenges. At the same time, Minnesotans know we can do better.
We have an opportunity this year to deliver on both closing the remaining $627 million budget shortfall and making important new investments based on the priorities we all share. A prosperous future depends on putting the past decade of constant deficits behind us, but we also need to raise new revenue if we want to invest in the things that will improve the quality of life for Minnesota families—education, infrastructure, and property tax relief. Minnesota is moving in the right direction, and our focus is getting the state on track for sustained economic stability and long-term prosperity.
The Senate will review the Governor’s proposals in the context of these new budget projections and offer our own budget targets prior to the Legislature’s Easter/Passover break. We look forward to hearing from the citizens of Minnesota as we build a budget around our shared goals.”
-30-Thu, 28 February 2013 00:00:00 GMTDayton, Thissen, Bakk: Time to move Minnesota forward togetherhttp://www.senate.mn/members/member_pr_display.php?ls=&id=4628
Minnesotans were given a clear choice between two very different visions for the future of our state in this last election, and the results speak for themselves. Now, with a DFL governor and two DFL majorities in the Legislature for the first time in 22 years, we are focused on our shared responsibility to govern well for all the people of Minnesota and to lead our state forward together.
And with so much at stake, we know that Minnesotans are watching closely.
Our commitment is not only to give you a government that works, but a government that works for you. That means balancing the budget responsibly without gimmicks and borrowing. It means making our tax system fair in order to invest in education, job creation and property tax relief. And it means continuing to reform state government to make it work better for all Minnesotans.
We know this won't be easy, but it starts by being honest about our state's structural budget problems. Incredibly, we've faced a state budget deficit in eight of the last ten years, and this year is no different. After a decade of deep cuts, short-sighted accounting gimmicks, and borrowing from our future, we enter this budget cycle facing another billion dollar budget deficit--and we still owe our schools a billion dollars more.
It is clear that the slash, burn and borrow budgeting approach of the past has not put our state on stable footing. Tuition is skyrocketing at our colleges and universities, class sizes are growing in our K-12 schools, property taxes are steadily increasing for families, farmers, seniors and small businesses, and too many Minnesotans remain out of work or underemployed.
We need to take bold action to put our state on a path to long-term economic prosperity. It is time for a new approach--one that is fair, responsible and does not place the burden for solving our budget issues on the backs of middle-class families.
As we begin to debate the budget at the Capitol in the weeks ahead, we share the basic philosophy that we cannot cut our way to prosperity, just as we cannot tax our way to greatness. That simplistic debate has not served us well. We are instead committed to a budget that will promote our economic competitiveness, provide greater economic security for the middle class, and create pathways into it for those struggling in these tough economic times.
We recognize that the road to a sustained economic recovery is a strong and expanding middle class. As our economy grows, it is critical that state policy encourages prosperity that is widely shared in all parts of Minnesota with jobs that provide economic security and wages on which people can improve their lives and raise their families. That is the lens through which we will view all of our policy choices.
We recognize that Minnesota's long-term economic competitiveness will hinge on our ability to deliver a world-class education for our kids. A race to the top means that Minnesota should lead the nation in early education, K-12 and in higher education. But after a decade of disinvestment we have declined. This year is our opportunity to reverse course.
Further, we know we will never make these critical investments in education to keep our state thriving unless we bring stability and fairness back to our tax system. Middle class Minnesota families and businesses have seen their property taxes double over the past eight years. At the same time, the wealthiest Minnesotans pay a lower percentage of their income in taxes than middle class families and some corporations continue to enjoy unfair tax breaks. Tax reform must not be about picking on one group--indeed, eliminating loopholes while lowering some business taxes makes sense. But everyone should share responsibility for investing in the priorities that put Minnesota on a path to progress--now and for generations to come.
We are going to have disagreements, but our differences will force us toward common ground, not a government shutdown. Ideological barriers have stalled progress at the State Capitol for far too long. We will be serious, mindful of the stakes, and inclusive of all voices--including those of Republican legislators. The people of Minnesota want and deserve a government that listens to different ideas and engages in reasoned debate. That's how a democracy is supposed to work.
We understand there is tough work ahead. We are committed to working together to address our state's challenges with a focus on the priorities we all share: balancing the state's budget responsibly and expanding economic opportunity for all Minnesotans. That is how we will move our state forward.
We are ready to get to work.
We are going to have disagreements, but our differences will force us toward common ground, not a government shutdown. Ideological barriers have stalled progress at the State Capitol for far too long. We will be serious, mindful of the stakes, and inclusive of all voices--including those of Republican legislators.
Paul Thissen, DFL-Minneapolis, is speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives. Tom Bakk, DFL-Cook, is Senate majority leader. Mark Dayton, DFL, is Minnesota governor.Sun, 20 January 2013 00:00:00 GMTAnderson appointed to Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Councilhttp://www.senate.mn/members/member_pr_display.php?ls=&id=4630
ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota State Senate Committee on Rules and Administration yesterday confirmed the appointment Bob Anderson, Mayor of International Falls, to the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council.
“I am very happy to serve on the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council,” said Anderson. “Across the state there is pressure put on our natural resources. In order for future generations to enjoy what we have in Minnesota we need to invest in projects that will sustain our natural habitat.”
Currently serving in his second, non-consecutive term as the mayor of International Falls, Anderson has been active in public service and community advocacy across four decades. Before recently returning as mayor, Anderson served as a city councilor for 14 years and has also chaired the local airport commission, the International Falls Charter Commission, the Highway 53 Four-Lane Improvement Task Force, and the board of trustees of Falls Memorial Hospital. Anderson has also chaired the International Falls Chamber of Commerce, is a past chairman of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, and was formerly president of the League of Minnesota Cities.
Said Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk (DFL-Cook), “Clearly, Mayor Anderson is one of our state’s best public servants. We are fortunate to have his expertise and commitment to the outdoors representing the citizens of Minnesota on the Lessard-Sams Council.”
Now retired, Anderson worked in the forest products industry at Boise Cascade for over 50 years, serving in public affairs for much of that time. Anderson currently resides on the Rainy River, a major Minnesota-Ontario watershed, and he owns timberland and wildlife habitat in Koochiching County.
Added Anderson, “I care deeply about our land and water here in Minnesota. We’re all stakeholders in Minnesota’s great outdoors, and I’m committed to making sure my grandchildren and generations to come can experience that heritage.”
-30-Tue, 15 January 2013 00:00:00 GMTSen. Bakk statement on Governor’s Supplemental Budgethttp://www.senate.mn/members/member_pr_display.php?ls=&id=4717
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Gov. Mark Dayton announced the details of his supplemental budget proposal this morning. Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk released the following statement:
“From the start of this year’s budget debate, Gov. Dayton has provided the leadership the state needs to deliver on both closing our $627 million budget shortfall and investing in the priorities most Minnesotans share—our children’s education, job growth, and property tax relief for families and businesses. Today the Governor reinforced our shared commitment to work together on passing a fair and honest budget that puts the last decade of deficits and borrowing behind us, and moves Minnesota forward on the path to a growing middle class and long-term economic prosperity.
The Senate plans to release its budget targets next week, and we look forward to hearing from the public as we work with our colleagues in the House and with Gov. Dayton on building a straight-forward and responsible budget that reflects our common goal for a better Minnesota.”
-30-Thu, 14 March 2013 00:00:00 GMTSen. Bakk statement on dismissal of Brodkorb claims against the Minnesota Senatehttp://www.senate.mn/members/member_pr_display.php?ls=&id=4650
ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Senate prevailed today on the entirety of its motion to dismiss three of the remaining five claims filed against the Senate by former Republican staffer Michael Brodkorb.
The court granted the Senate everything it sought in its motion, including the dismissal of two defamation claims against former Secretary of the Senate Cal Ludeman, and a third constitutional rights claim which was dismissed on procedural grounds. As a result of the decision, Cal Ludeman is no longer a party to the law suit and just two of the plaintiff’s original ten claims remain before the court. These two remaining claims both relate to gender discrimination—one under federal law and one under state law.
Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk released the following statement:
“I welcome this news on behalf of the Minnesota State Senate. We will now take time to review the implications of this decision as we determine how the Senate will proceed and ultimately resolve this litigation. Our hope is to bring the remainder of the law suit to a prompt and satisfactory conclusion.”Wed, 13 February 2013 00:00:00 GMTSen. Bakk Statement on Successful Disaster Relief Special Sessionhttp://www.senate.mn/members/member_pr_display.php?ls=&id=4834
ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Legislature convened a one-day Special Session today to approve disaster relief funds for Minnesota communities affected by recent weather events. Following the Minnesota Senate's unanimous authorization of $4.7 million in disaster relief, Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk released the following statement:
“Minnesotans come together to support one another after natural disasters and the legislature is no exception. I’m proud of the State Senate for taking this important step to ensure communities across our state can fully recover from the damage caused by severe storms earlier this year.”Mon, 09 September 2013 00:00:00 GMTSenate Majority Leader Bakk statement on State of the State addresshttp://www.senate.mn/members/member_pr_display.php?ls=&id=4648
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Governor Mark Dayton delivered the State of the State address this evening before a joint convention of the Minnesota Legislature. Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk released the following statement:
“The Governor spoke from the heart tonight about the serious challenges facing our state and provided a clear vision for Minnesota’s future based on our shared goal to erase the state’s billion dollar deficit and make targeted investments that will set Minnesota on a course for long-term prosperity.
As the Governor rightly pointed out, trying to cut our way to prosperity is a failed experiment. For more than a decade, Minnesota has been in a constant cycle of crisis management, facing budget deficits in 8 of the last 11 years. Whether or not you agree with every aspect of the Governor’s proposal, it is clear that the status quo is not an option. Governor Dayton is finally providing the kind of leadership that will keep Minnesota on top in the 21st century.
I look forward to working with my colleagues in the legislature and Governor Dayton as we work together on tackling these tremendous challenges and making the difficult decisions that will shape the future of Minnesota.”
-30-Wed, 06 February 2013 00:00:00 GMTSen. Bakk Statement on November Economic Forecasthttp://www.senate.mn/members/member_pr_display.php?ls=&id=4888
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota Management & Budget released the state's November Economic Forecast earlier today. Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk released the following statement:
“Today's positive forecast is more good news for the people of Minnesota. Our state's workers and businesses are the engine of our growing economy, and it's thanks to them that Minnesota is well positioned coming out of the recent economic downturn.
This forecast also shows how the honest budget passed by the legislature and the Governor, without accounting shifts or gimmicks, has created the confidence and stability necessary for Minnesota's economy to grow. Claims that new revenue in the DFL budget would cripple the state's economy are simply false, and we are optimistic that Minnesota will continue to add jobs in the coming year.
Not only did today's forecast show revenue projections above what was expected, the state's spending came in $247 million below what was appropriated, providing another strong indicator of a responsible budget.
At the same time, it would be irresponsible to portray a projected surplus as money in the bank. As the legislature convenes next year, we will await the more up-to-date February forecast as we work together to expand economic opportunity for all and sustain Minnesota's long-term prosperity.”
###Thu, 05 December 2013 00:00:00 GMTBakk Statement on the November Forecasthttp://www.senate.mn/members/member_pr_display.php?ls=&id=5219
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk (DFL-Cook) released the following statement on the release of the November Budget and Economic Forecast.
“Minnesota has faced structural deficits every biennium since 2001. Democratic leadership is responsible for getting our state off the economic rollercoaster and creating long-term stability,” Sen. Bakk said. “We can see from today's forecast that the work of the last two years to create a structurally balanced budget put the state on sound financial footing—which is why we find ourselves with a surplus today. This will allow us to continue to invest in the priorities we all share as Minnesotans.”
-30-Thu, 04 December 2014 00:00:00 GMTSen. Bakk statement on House Rules Committee actionhttp://www.senate.mn/members/member_pr_display.php?ls=&id=5074
ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota House Rules and Legislative Administration Committee today approved plans for construction of a new Capitol office building. The Senate Committee on Rules and Administration will meet on Monday, April 7, to consider the House proposal. Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk released the following statement:
"I commend the House Rules Committee for taking an important step to allow both the Capitol restoration project and the new Capitol office building to proceed. The Senate Rules Committee will convene a hearing on Monday to consider the House's proposal.
There remains broad support for the long overdue restoration of Minnesota's deteriorating Capitol building, which will permanently bump many of the Senate's hearing rooms and offices out of the Capitol and into a new building across the street. As the Department of Administration confirmed again today, every other feasible alternative and any further delay would be more costly, both in the short term and in the long term."
###Fri, 04 April 2014 00:00:00 GMTSenate to vote on Safe & Supportive Schools Acthttp://www.senate.mn/members/member_pr_display.php?ls=&id=5060
ST. PAUL, Minn. - Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk today confirmed plans to take up the Safe & Supportive Minnesota Schools Act, H.F. 826, for a vote on the floor of the Minnesota Senate this Thursday, April 3.Wed, 02 April 2014 00:00:00 GMTSen. Bakk statement on State of the State Addresshttp://www.senate.mn/members/member_pr_display.php?ls=&id=5107
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Governor Mark Dayton delivered the State of the State Address this evening before a joint convention of the Minnesota Legislature. Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk released the following statement:
“Tonight, the Governor underscored the progress Minnesota has seen over the past two legislative sessions, which have been among the most productive in recent history.
Our state is in its strongest fiscal position in more a decade, we have exceeded our pre-recession jobs numbers and we are witnessing new economic development in nearly every region of Minnesota. Yet, as the Governor emphasized, there is still more we can accomplish this year to help Minnesota workers, farmers and businesses thrive.
In the days ahead, we will work together with our colleagues on both sides of the aisle to finalize a package of tax cuts and key investments for Minnesota families, along with a robust bonding bill to put thousands of men and women to work on improving our state’s deteriorating infrastructure.
As Governor Dayton said, we all want Minnesota to be its best and our most important job is to ensure a better, more prosperous future for our children and grandchildren.”
-30-Thu, 01 May 2014 00:00:00 GMT